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​​Thank you to all of the drivers, travelers, neighbors, and employees and airline partners who have helped us get off to a great start with the Midway Modernization Program. We recognize the inconveniences that come with construction and appreciate your patience.

As the construction affects more areas in and around the airport, we will continue to provide updates to help you plan accordingly. Follow us on
Twitter for the latest. We appreciate your continued support and hope you’ll join in the excitement as we watch a modern Midway rise up around us!

Construction Update May 2020

Security Checkpoint Expansion

In May the temporary exit lane leaving the Checkpoint area was temporarily reconfigured to allow finishing work inside of the exit lane. Prior to this change, passengers were being routed through TSA pre-check queuing space to facilitate work on the Checkpoint. This configuration through the TSA pre-check queuing space is expected to be restored by the end of the month.

Roof installation continues on the Checkpoint, and the south baggage claim area remains partitioned off with lower level door #1 still open. Active work in this area includes elevator and escalator installation. Steel erection in baggage makeup got underway in mid-May with nightly safety lockouts of conveyor system in basement.

Two lanes of Cicero Avenue remain open in each direction during construction.

Views of new south checkpoint queuing area, south bridge, and new escalators in mezzanine

Terminal Parking Garage Enhancements

New wayfinding signage will be installed in terminal parking lots to enhance passengers’ experience when parking or dropping off/picking up. Installation of PARCs (Parking Access Revenue Control Systems) equipment continues at garage entrances including: terminal garage, economy garage, daily lot, cellphone lot, and various employee lots. Some temporary and partial closures to entrances/exits will be necessary, but efforts will be made to maintain access where possible. Equipment is also being tested and calibrated to ensure it functions properly. Equipment installation and testing is expected to last through the end of summer.

Upgrades to passenger elevators in terminal garage lobbies and improvements to parking spaces, lighting, painting, and safety features are ongoing.

Concessions Redevelopment Program

The Concessions Redevelopment Program will reflect Chicago’s diversity and showcase the best of local options and brands through a $75 million private partnership investment. With more than 70 offerings planned, the effort will double concessions jobs from 700 to 1,400.

Construction work is on hold until further notice.

Prior to the temporary halt in construction, three new restaurants were completed: Gene’s Bistro, Tallboy Tacos and Big Bowl. Opening dates are still to be determined.

Building System Improvements

Travelers and employees may notice brief closures in the terminal and concourses for system upgrades. This includes some daytime work in the Central Market in May and June. Cones and soft barriers (drapes) will mark off work areas. An 8-foot walkway will be maintained for employees and passengers.

Temporary closures at gates/waiting areas (two at a time) in Concourse A continue through May and then move to Concourse B in June and July. Extra seating will be available. System improvements will last through this summer but should not affect overall operations or travelers.